Converting Utility-1st shift

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Utility Operator- Converting

Department: Converting

Reports to: Converting Supervisor

Location: Sturtevant, WI

Shift: 1st shift 6- 2PM

Position Summary: The Utility Operator – Converting is a cross-trained, multi-machine operator who provides flexible, skilled coverage across the converting department. Unlike an operator assigned to a single machine, the Utility Operator is expected to run effectively on multiple pieces of equipment — flexo folder gluers, die cutters, the bundler, and the stitcher — and to move between assignments as production demand, staffing, and scheduling require.

This role is the converting department's operational flexibility. A strong Utility Operator reduces the impact of absenteeism, fills machine gaps during peak periods, and accelerates throughput when specific lines need surge coverage. The ideal candidate is technically proficient, adaptable, and self-directed — someone who can take an assignment, confirm their setup, and run to standard without close supervision.

Compensation 

The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge/skills, experience, geographical location, and internal equity. At ND Paper, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each position and candidate. 

About Us

ND Paper is a leading manufacturer of high-quality pulp, paper, and packaging products in the United States, generating over half a billion dollars in annual sales. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Nine Dragons Paper (Holdings) Limited – the largest containerboard producer in the world – ND Paper is part of a global network committed to excellence and innovation. With two integrated pulp and paper mills in Rumford, Maine and Biron, Wisconsin, a packaging plant in Sturtevant, Wisconsin, and two sheeting facilities in Langhorne, Pennsylvania and Fairmont, West Virginia, the ND Paper family produces nearly one million tons of products annually. Our 1,100 dedicated employees are the heart of our operations, and we are committed to fostering positive work environments where individuals can advance and thrive. At ND Paper, we are investing in our future, and that starts with our staff. 

Key Responsibilities & Expected Results:

Multi-Machine Operation

• Operate assigned converting equipment safely and to production standard — including flexo folder gluers, die cutters, bundler, and stitcher
• Set up assigned equipment at shift start: confirm dies, plates, scores, glue settings, and any job-specific parameters before running first piece
• Complete first-piece verification on every order before full production begins; do not advance to full run without confirming spec
• Adjust machine settings as needed during the run to maintain output quality and speed
• Transition between equipment assignments within or across shifts as directed by the Lead or Supervisor

2. Quality & Accuracy

• Inspect in-process product throughout the run — check dimensions, print registration, score/slot positions, glue integrity, and bundle/stitch quality
• Stop the run immediately if product is out of spec; notify the Lead and initiate a quality hold per SOP
• Verify order count accuracy; do not release an order to staging with an unresolved count discrepancy
• Complete all required quality check forms and attach job ticket documentation before releasing finished goods

3. Downtime Logging & Issue Reporting

• Log all downtime events with the correct reason code, machine, and elapsed time — no blank reason codes
• Attempt operator-level troubleshooting (feed adjustments, minor jams, glue system resets) before calling for help
• Escalate mechanical, electrical, or recurring issues to the Lead immediately — do not continue running on a known problem
• Report setup delays, material issues, or ticket discrepancies to the Lead at the time they occur, not at end of shift

4. Safety & Housekeeping

• Follow all LOTO (lockout/tagout) procedures before performing any cleaning, adjustment, or clearing of jams on equipment
• Wear all required PPE for each machine and task — compliance is non-negotiable
• Maintain a clean, organized work area throughout the shift; complete 5S housekeeping duties before leaving the machine
• Report any unsafe condition, near-miss, or injury to the Lead immediately

5. Shift Handoff & Communication

• Communicate run status, open issues, and pending setups to the incoming operator or Lead at shift change
• Leave equipment in a clean, safe state at end of shift — no mid-job jams, no materials left in feeders without documentation
• Participate in pre-shift huddles and follow any task assignments or priority changes from the Lead

Equipment coverage &Skill Progression

The Utility Operator role is defined by multi-machine competency. The following matrix is used to track each operator's current clearance level. Operators are expected to expand their clearance profile over time through structured cross-training.

Equipment / Task

Competency Level

Cleared to Run Solo

Flexo Folder Gluer

___________________

☐ Yes ☐ In Training

Die Cutter

___________________

☐ Yes ☐ In Training

Bundler

___________________

☐ Yes ☐ In Training

Stitcher

___________________

☐ Yes ☐ In Training

Ink / Color Kitchen Support

___________________

☐ Yes ☐ In Training

Qualifications and Skills /Education and Experience

Required:

• Ability to learn and operate multiple types of converting equipment through structured on-the-job training
• Ability to read and interpret job tickets, print layouts, and material/order specifications
• Reliable attendance and punctuality — this role is a coverage position; unplanned absences directly impact production
• Demonstrated attention to detail in a production or manufacturing environment
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and complete required documentation accurately

Preferred:

• High School/ GED diploma
• Prior experience operating converting equipment — flexo folder gluers, die cutters, bundler, or stitcher — in a corrugated or packaging environment
• Bilingual English/Spanish — strong preference given the composition of the production workforce
• Familiarity with quality inspection, LOTO procedures, and 5S housekeeping standards
• Prior experience in a utility, cross-trained, or float operator role
• Bilingual in Mandarin a plus

Physical Requirements

• Frequent handling and positioning of rotary dies — team lift required above 50 lbs.; large-format dies may require mechanical assist.